Youngsters are at their most vulnerable when they are on the streets and without a home for whatever reason.

It could be because they have fallen out with their families or because they cannot afford the high rents in cities such as Brighton and Hove.

They might be in low-paid jobs or even unemployed. They might be experiencing crises of confidence.

Once they are homeless, they are only too likely to fall victim to drug addiction or become alcoholics unless they are given help.

That is why the Government has announced measures to help them solve their problems at an early stage and to give them somewhere safe to go in an emergency.

Figures from the Children's Society show that 2,300 youngsters a year run away from home in Sussex.

Meanwhile the Clock Tower Sanctuary in the heart of Brighton is showing a huge increase in the number of visits by young homeless people.

Partly this is because it is becoming better known but the main reason is that homelessness is spiralling.

Credit must go to the Government for recognising the problem and doing something to tackle it.

But far more is needed to make sure people have homes over their heads at affordable rents and prices.

The Government must ensure more of these homes are made available in property hot spots such as Brighton and Hove or the problem of homelessness will continue to escalate.